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Explore Caves In Jamaica

Whether you are a true spelunker, a casual enthusiast, or a completely inexperienced beginner, Jamaica offers a variety of cave exploring adventures, suitable for every skill level. Marvelous geological formations are sure to inspire wonder in even the most experienced spelunker. Carefully guided tours with knowledgeable staff are available for beginners and children to explore in complete safety.

Just outside of Port Antonio, on a 180-acre coconut plantation, is a lovely example of the caves of Jamaica. This fascinating place, called the Caves of Nonesuch, is 1.5 million years old and contains many wonders. Well lit, with walkways, stairs and railings, this multi-chambered underground site is perfect for the casual cave enthusiast, though even the experienced caver - while smiling a bit at the ease of the half hour walk - will find sights of interest, as will those interested in geology and native history. Admission is $8 for those aged 12 and up, and $3 for children 11 and under. The admission price, in addition to a guided tour of the caves, also included a guided tour of the beautiful gardens found nearby.

Among the many wonders to be found inside of the Caves of Nonesuch are fossils that some say date back to the very birth of Jamaica, including fossilized marine life, leading some researchers to conclude that the land itself was formed underground and then pushed to the surface by underwater volcanic activity. There are stalagmites and stalactites, as well as numerous other geological formations. There are even traces of ancient Arawak civilization. It is truly a fascinating place.

Not all the caves in Jamaica, however, are so easy to explore. Those found in Cockpit Country are not for the inexperienced caver, and should only be explored with a guide. Among the more well known of the more than 70 caves in the wild expanse of Cockpit Country are the Windsor Caves, home to a variety of wildlife, including bats, in addition to a variety of geological formations of interest.

Cockpit Country Adventure Tours offers guided exploration of the region's caves, with tours designed for specific skill levels. The Rock Spring Cave is for explorers of most skill levels, and goes downwards gradually for 1 1/2 miles. Some, such as the Quashie River Sink Cave, are provided only to experienced spelunkers. Cavers will lower themselves by rope, deep into the ground to explore a vast area featuring fossils from a far distant past.

Peace Cave, also found in Cockpit County, in addition to containing beautiful quartz and limestone formations, hold a very special place in the social history of Jamaica. This cave was one of many that sheltered the legendary Maroons, fierce freedom fighters who demanded and received concessions from the British, securing their right to autonomy by signed treaties. Peace Cave is the site of annual rituals to honor the achievements of these brave people.

Because Jamaica is formed primarily of limestone, there are numerous caves and underground rivers. Underneath Jamaica, deep inside of the caves, geological links to the earliest days and life forms of this island nation can be found. There are as many adventures to be found below Jamaica as there are above.

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